Author: Khadeja Ali

This is one of my rare marker drawings. The dark alley and its dweller were the perfect subject matter to explore an illustrative, narrative style. Sometimes I think I might like to try drawing a comic, and if I did, I’d definitely be using black markers. Like many others, I associate using black marker with storytelling.

I gave myself a challenge to draw something based on the word “universe” and as I drew, I came up with the shapes that made up this face. The universe as a face isn’t something I’ve thought of before, but since seeing the universe in someone’s face is a romantic notion (and I’m a sucka for that), I went with it. And I’m happy with how it came out!

I don’t like overly explaining my imagery. However, I feel comfortable saying that a lot of what makes up this face are small portrayals of the universe from the Earth, through the atmosphere, all the way to space.

Something I enjoyed doing was hiding little “surprises” here and there; little drawings within drawings. Every time I found a place for one, I went for it. There’s something special about knowing that people out there will find them, you know?

Anyway, I hope you enjoy this one, I was really excited for a chance to share it!

As those of you who have checked out my other posts (thank you!) notice, I’ve been drawing more places. It comes so easily! This work started as nothing but a pile of flat squares and turned into a peacefully inviting place very organically. This truly ended up being a version of a place where I would feel comfortable and at peace.

It’s somewhat wild, but still protected. Not dark, with a hint at candlelight (which I consider to be very warm light). Remnants of others who came before me. A little creature to keep me company…

However, this peaceful solitude isn’t all I’m about. “Peace” is personal, and complicated. When I’m searching for peace, I’m not always looking for the same thing for every situation. Sometimes I want silence and being alone, but at other times peace is found while cuddling in front of a TV, or listening to some dope music…

When I create art, I’m showing facets of myself. I’m sure I’ve said that before in one of my other posts, or something like it. This drawing is a perfect example of a part of me.

It’s the scariest thing in the world, to put yourself out there – especially not your “best self.”

I find drawing myself very difficult. It’s also not something that I find as interesting as say, creating a fantasy creature or plant. So, I don’t do it often.

However, I do also enjoy forcing myself to do things I am uncomfortable with. And while I personally don’t think I look like the drawing, I see myself in it anyway, so I’m pleased with it.

It may be interesting that I recognize my hand more than my face in these drawings. Then again, how often do you look at your face? I constantly look at my hands. So this says something about me that I don’t even notice too much about myself.

So, why would I show something on my website that I am not too happy with? Because these sketches force me to confront myself, from the process of drawing to the viewing of it. Things run through my head like memories and personal philosophies. The obvious example: it made me think back to college when I took that one drawing class and did terribly – but gained further understanding of the things I did want to draw. Even now when I look at it, I think about how I see myself, and then how the world sees me. It’s deep stuff!

See? Even in mistake-riddled works, there is value. I say show it all.

So I made this pencil drawing a while ago, and I don’t exactly remember my thought process. What I do remember is contemplating, at some point before this was made, how many historical leaders and deities are associated with the Sun. It’s a perfect symbol for power and greatness, so no surprise – but I think the fact that this association has remained through literal millennium is pretty cool.

As I drew this Emperor, I kept them non corporeal, with limited shape and form, to represent how the sun is a spherical shape even as it is constantly undulating. I also remember thinking I wanted the figure to be read as either male or female, leaving it to the viewer.

I’d work on more creatures of the Sun in the future if it continues to inspire me. It’s certainly an interesting theme!

So I travelled to the beautiful island of Mauritius – a country that makes up half of my genetics. I gained a lot of clarity while I was there. I hope to draw about that in the future!

The mysterious Trou Aux Cerfs – inactive volcanic crater.

I did draw while I was there, but there aren’t many pictures that I can share with you here. This is because I took on a small project. I asked people to send me stories from their life, and I would draw something abstract based on whatever they sent me. These were highly personal stories and I was touched that anyone gave me anything to draw. I hope to do another project like that in the future.

For the time being, here are some doodles I managed to do for myself over my travels. I’m sorry for photos! My scanner is currently not working.

Some magical ideas

A double doodle page

Some whimsies

My stressed out eye

I have a lot going on this year, including working on my first book among other–highly important–things. I do, however, intend to continue my drawing journey and posting here for whoever may find me.